The Republic Day parade commenced on Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Monday, marking a significant moment in India's annual celebrations with a series of military displays and honors. The event began with a captivating aerial performance known as the 'Dhwaj Formation,' setting a patriotic tone for the day's proceedings.
Aerial Display with National and Service Flags
Four Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit soared overhead in a precise inverted 'Y' formation, creating a striking visual against the sky. These aircraft carried the National Ensign alongside the service flags of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, symbolizing the unity and strength of India's armed forces.
Group Captain Alok Ahlawat led the formation while trooping the National Flag, demonstrating exceptional skill and coordination. Wing Commander Ashutosh Khanduri served as Deputy Formation Leader, carrying the Indian Army Ensign with pride. Wing Commander Abhishek Malhotra bore the Indian Navy Ensign, and Wing Commander Abhishek Shukla held the Indian Air Force Ensign, completing the trio of service representations.
As the helicopters passed over Kartavya Path, they showered flower petals onto the parade ground below. This gesture added vibrant colors and a sense of solemnity to the Republic Day celebrations, creating a memorable spectacle for attendees and viewers nationwide.
Parade Leadership and Military Honors
Following the aerial salute, the Parade Commander, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, arrived with distinguished credentials. A recipient of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Sena Medal, Lt Gen Kumar smartly saluted the Commander-in-Chief, President Droupadi Murmu, as he passed the presidential dais.
Distinguished Military Careers
Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, a second-generation Army officer commissioned into the 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment on December 16, 1989, has an impressive service record. His career includes deployments in high-altitude areas at Dras under Operation Rakshak, participation in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in the North East under Operation Orchid, and service at the Siachen Glacier under Operation Meghdoot.
Additionally, he has served twice with the 50 (Independent) Parachute Brigade and commanded the 5th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment as part of the Strike Corps. His leadership extended to a Mountain Brigade in Jammu and Kashmir and a Reorganised Army Plains Infantry Division on the western borders, showcasing his versatility and strategic expertise.
The Deputy Parade Commander, Major General Navraj Dhillon, Vishisht Sena Medal, brings his own distinguished background to the event. Commissioned into the 42 Armoured Regiment in December 1991, Maj Gen Dhillon is a third-generation Army officer with the fourth generation currently serving. He has commanded the 42 Armoured Regiment and an Independent Armoured Brigade, along with holding several staff and instructional appointments throughout his career.
Gallantry Award Recipients Honored
Following the Parade Commander's arrival, recipients of India's highest gallantry awards made their way onto Kartavya Path, receiving well-deserved recognition for their extraordinary bravery and service to the nation.
Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar were honored with the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy. Major General C A Pithawalia (Retd) and Colonel D Sreeram Kumar received the Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime military decoration awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield.
Kartavya Path Decorations and Significance
Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated this year to reflect India's multifaceted journey as a nation. The Ministry of Defence stated that the decorations blend the legacy of Vande Mataram with representations of the country's developmental progress, military strength, and cultural diversity.
Republic Day, celebrated annually on January 26, commemorates the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. This historic day symbolizes India's transition into a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic founded on the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. The parade serves as both a celebration of these democratic ideals and a demonstration of national unity and military preparedness.
